What's the Solution for Swampy Socks?

I’m training for my first marathon. Everything is going great except that during most of my long runs (so far 8 to 10 miles) my synthetic socks get swampy from sweat. I guess they wick moisture from my feet, but during the especially hot times here in southeast Texas, that moisture just sits in my shoes. Should I plan to carry extra socks for a midrun change? Or, are there new, technologically advanced ubersocks available?

- Brent

Brent, technical fabrics are great at wicking and are usually pretty good at drying out quickly, but given the hot, humid conditions in your area, it just isn't possible for the moisture to evaporate since the air is so heavily saturated already. So, your socks never dry out. We run in very similar conditions here in Florida.

Socks made from these synthetic fabrics with wicking properties are still the best to run in because they prevent chafing and blisters better than cotton socks, especially given how wet your socks and shoes become on long runs.

For your long runs, I suggest you leave a fresh pair of socks in your car or another safe location (like a friend's house) along your running route for a quick change. Perhaps you could map out a loop so you can make a quick pit stop to change midway through your run. This would also give you a stop for water, sports drink, and fuel. Changing your socks will make your training runs more comfortable and, hopefully, you will be racing in better conditions.

If your race will be in hot, humid conditions, you need to decide if avoiding the discomfort of running in swampy shoes is worth the time you’ll lose by, say, pulling off the course to change into socks you gave to a friend beforehand.

Best Wishes,

Susan Paul, MS

Susan Paul has coached more than 2,000 runners and is an exercise physiologist and program director for the Orlando Track Shack Foundation. For more information, visit www.trackshack.com[4].

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